At the networking event which I attended this morning, (Refer-on, Felixstowe) we had a 30min session on the above topic, and I thought I’d share it with all of you!


1. Plan ahead – get the attendee list and make a not of who you intend to chat to

2. Be early – if the attendee lists aren’t available pre-event, this gives you a chance to do the above.

3. Be regular – as your face becomes more familiar, people will gravitate towards you and will be able to match the face to the name

4. Have a tale / story – keep it relevant i.e a similar client or some interesting success you have had recently

5. Meet, greet and move on – don’t spend any longer than you need to with one person. Try to meet 5-7 strangers in each session

6. Effective 60seconds – make sure you take advantage of your chance to make a first impression

7. Volunteer – offer to do a talk at another session, or write the minutes, or provide the lap top – it makes you look professional, helpful and enthusiastic

8. Giving is best – be the first to suggest exchanging business cards, or meeting up for a coffee – don’t expect that it’s coming

9. Have a 1:1 – either after the meeting, or another day

10. Follow up – if you say you will email or call, then do. It makes you look credible and trustworthy.

A final thought…………..”People buy from people they know, like and trust!”

Good luck in your networking endeavours!

Helen